In elementary school, we were introduced to the characteristics of living things using the acronym MR NIGER-D. For those who may not recall, it stands for:
Movement
Respiration
Nutrition
Irritability (response to stimuli)
Growth
Excretion
Reproduction
Death
The first on that list is Movement, a fundamental sign of life.
As we advanced in school, we encountered the foundational principles of physics through the work of Sir Isaac Newton, particularly his Three Laws of Motion. Newton’s First Law of Motion states:
“An object will remain at rest or in uniform motion in a straight line unless acted upon by an external force.”
Though rooted in science, this law carries a profound insight into human life. While movement is a defining trait of living beings, we do not move or continue to move unless something influences us. In other words, change and progress require a force.
This realization is powerful:
Change does not occur on its own. Progress demands a push.
Life does not automatically get better with time. People do not evolve, improve, or fulfill purpose simply by existing. As Newton observed, movement happens when a force is applied. That force can take several forms:
Environmental forces like our surroundings, relationships, or life events can push us forward or hold us back.
Internal forces such as discipline, passion, or resilience can propel us into action.
Spiritual forces shape us in more invisible yet powerful ways. Many lives have been transformed, positively or negatively, based on spiritual influences.
Above all, the greatest and most consistent force is the divine. Whether one accepts it or not, life is deeply spiritual. Ignoring this truth does not shield one from its reality. But just as there are harmful spiritual influences, there is also a good and powerful divine force. God, through His word and His principles, can set your life in motion and guide you toward your true purpose and destination.
Based on the above, if I were to rewrite Newton’s First Law, it would read:
“A human will remain in a state of stagnation or purposeless motion unless acted upon by a divine force.”
As Psalm 100 verse 3 reminds us:
“Know that the Lord, He is God. It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves. We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.”
Ensure you welcome that divine influence into your journey as you go through the rest of this year.
Take stock of the influences shaping your decisions and direction. Then choose intentionally. Life favors those who act with purpose rather than drift in comfort.
Have a great weekend ahead.
Share your thoughts
What’s one step you would take if this write-up has inspired you?
2 thoughts on “The Law of Motion”
The divine force is at work in my life.. Hallelujah
I have been inspired to always welcome divine influence every step of the way so that my life may remain in purposeful motion.
Thanks for these words sir. More grace.